K-12 Dive

The lagging number of state policies addressing teacher shortages is exacerbating poor academic outcomes for the growing population of students with disabilities and English learners, according to a new report from the nonprofit National Council on Teacher Quality. As just over two-thirds of students from both of those groups cannot read on grade level, the report released Tuesday said a big part of that challenge stems from the fact that states aren’t doing enough to support educators in special education and English language learning. For instance, only 17 states require that special education teachers pass an “acceptable” reading licensure test, while even fewer — five — mandate the same for those instructing English learners. Additionally, NCTQ found that teacher preparation standards in both areas are disjointed, as most states do not explicitly mandate them. The nonprofit also pointed out that financial incentives for special educators and teachers of English learners can be useful in addressing critical shortages, but many states don’t offer additional compensation.